Viewing & Reading the Graphic Novel

As you read Sugar Falls, you will soon discover that it reflects the history of some Indigenous people and their experiences with residential schools. The focus is on the protagonist, Betty, and her true account of her time at a residential school.

Sugar Falls, written by David Alexander Robertson and illustrated by Scott Henderson, is a powerful graphic novel based on the true story of Betty Ross (Betsy) and her story of life at a residential school. While Betsy helps Daniel with his school assignment by telling him about the abuse and indignity she was forced to endure at the residential school, we witness the courage and strength she used in order to survive, as she remembers the words her father whispered to her at Sugar Falls. This graphic novel contains mature content; viewer discretion is advised.


Step 1:    Read and View the graphic novel, Sugar Falls. As you read, give deep consideration for the strong messages that are so effectively conveyed in this short, but very powerful, graphic novel.